In the heart of San Francisco, the Fairmont Hotel transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season, enchanting visitors with its grandeur and festive spirit. Central to this holiday cheer is the hotel’s iconic Gingerbread House, a tradition that has captured the imagination of guests for over a decade. Standing as a testament to culinary and engineering prowess, the Fairmont’s Gingerbread House is more than just a seasonal decoration—it’s a beloved holiday destination where memories are made.
For over 10 years, the Fairmont San Francisco has been crafting its famed Gingerbread House, evolving it into a remarkable spectacle of holiday magic. This tradition began modestly but has grown in size and splendor, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to creating an unforgettable holiday experience. Each year, Fairmont’s talented teams work tirelessly to enhance and expand the Gingerbread House, ensuring that it remains a highlight of San Francisco’s holiday season.
Today
The Gingerbread House at the Fairmont San Francisco is a sight to behold, boasting 7,750 real gingerbread bricks, 1,500 pounds of royal icing, and 700 pounds of candy. This architectural marvel, requiring over 895 hours of combined effort from the Pastry and Engineering Departments, begins its construction in July to dazzle guests through New Year’s. Beyond its visual appeal, the Gingerbread House is sustainably built, with the framework recycled annually and edible components composted, underscoring the hotel’s environmental commitment.
Visitors to the Fairmont San Francisco can not only marvel at the Gingerbread House but also enjoy a unique dining experience inside this sweet abode. The hotel offers a private dining room within the Gingerbread House, accommodating groups of up to 8 for a memorable holiday feast. Additionally, the hotel’s lobby is home to a majestic 23-foot tall Christmas tree, complementing the festive atmosphere.
The Fairmont San Francisco is situated atop Nob Hill, a prime location offering breathtaking views of the city. The Gingerbread House can be visited in the hotel’s grand lobby at 950 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA.
For more details, including booking information for dining within the Gingerbread House, visit the Fairmont San Francisco’s website.
The display is open to the public from mid-November through New Year’s, free of charge.
The Fairmont San Francisco’s Gingerbread House is more than just a holiday decoration; it’s an immersive experience that brings joy and wonder to all who visit. Its scale, beauty, and craftsmanship make it a must-see attraction in San Francisco during the holiday season. Whether you’re admiring the intricate details of the house, enjoying a champagne toast at the Lobby Bar, or dining within the gingerbread walls, the Fairmont offers a unique way to celebrate the festive spirit.
Read about the Making of the Gingerbread House
PIER 39 Holiday Tree with Nightly Tree Lighting Shows Experience the holiday magic at PIER 39 in San Francisco, where a towering Christmas tree lights up the waterfront, offering a festive backdrop to a season full of joy, shopping, dining, and the famous sea lions
Fisherman’s Wharf for the Holidays -Fisherman’s Wharf celebrates with lighted fishing boats in the harbor, a Boat parade, and the Crab wheel sign light for the holidays
Experience the holiday magic at the Fairmont San Francisco with its life-sized Gingerbread House, crafted from thousands of gingerbread bricks and adorned with candy. A festive tradition that delights visitors of all ages.
Cable Cars are decorated for the Holiday Season: open to the public since 1873, this fascinating mode of transportation conveys visitors from Market Street to Beach Street, where Fisherman’s Wharf is less than a ten-minute walk away. Be sure to watch operators move the cable car on a turntable to point it in the right direction for the return trip to Market Street!
Experience the magic of the holiday season at San Francisco’s City Hall and Civic Center. 50′ Tall Holiday Tree with City Hall light up in holiday colors as the perfect backdrop.
Holiday Magic at Ghirardelli Square, San Francisco’s historic landmark, where festive lights, holiday movies, and the aroma of chocolate create a perfect holiday escape
Umbrella Alley – All Holiday Lights tours start at Umbrella Alley in Fisheman’s Wharf. Mural-filled alley with perfect backdrops for Instagram and Tik Tok. Located at 757 Beach Street near Hyde St.
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